Circle Island Tour w/ Byodo In Temple

2853 Reviews

Experience The Real Hawaii!

Book online or call: (808) 698-5779

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Oahu with our Hidden Gems of Oahu Circle Island Tour. Discover the island’s best-kept secrets as you traverse its scenic routes, guided by our expert local tour guides who breathe life into each stop with their wealth of knowledge and passion for sharing the island’s rich heritage [1]. From the vibrant culture of Waikiki to the serene beauty of Byodo-In Temple, immerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of Oahu’s attractions. Witness breathtaking vistas, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches tucked away from the beaten path. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, this tour promises something extraordinary for every traveler. Join us and uncover the hidden gems that make Oahu truly remarkable.


  • Tour Name: Circle Island Tour w/ Byodo In Temple
  • Availability: Daily
  • Duration: 9h
  • Start Time: Check availability

What's included

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional Guide
  • Waikiki Pick-Up & Drop-Off
  • Admission to Byodo-In Temple
  • Entry/Admission – Byodo-In Temple

What’s not included

  • Gratuities
  • Guest should bring money for food and drinks

What to expect

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Diamond Head State Monument, 18th Ave. Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815

The first lookout we visit is an elevated view perched on the eastern side of Waikiki’s famous Diamond Head Volcano, This lookout grants us a great opportunity for pictures of the south eastern coastline of Oahu, with notable sights as far as Hanauma bay and Maui on a clear day. The location is more formally known as Amelia Earhart Lookout, known for where bystanders gathered to watch Earhart make her first solo aviation journey from Hawaii to North America.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Halona Blowhole, Kalanian’ole Highway, Oahu, HI 96825

Molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions that occurred from Oahu’s Koko Head crater formed the natural occurrence known as the Halona Blowhole. This lava tube extends into the ocean with a very narrow opening at the top, and when the surf is just right, water pressure builds up within the lava tube and erupts through the narrow opening creating a special Hawaiian Geyser for your viewing pleasure.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Makapu’u Point, Kalaniana’ole Hwy turnout above Makapu’u Beach, Oahu, HI 96795

Witness Waimanalo’s dramatic sea cliffs as we turn into Oahu’s windward side as we begin our journey to the North Shore of Oahu. Look off into the azure blue waters of the bay and you will see Oahu’s famous Manana Island also known as Rabbit island due to its Rabbit like shape.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Byodo-In Temple, 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744-4562

The Temple grounds are a lushly landscaped paradise nestled in a cleft of the pali and are home to wild peacocks and hundreds of Japanese koi carp. The beautiful grounds include a large reflecting pond, meditation niches, and small waterfalls. Our guests describe this destination as beautiful, peaceful, and restful. Admissions is included with the price of tour.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Tropical Farms (The Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet), 49-227 Kamehameha Hwy Ste A, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744-5165

After a beautiful drive along Oahu’s eastern coastline, our next stop is a local shop that finds itself tucked away under aged Banyan Trees with macadamia nut and delicious Kona coffee tastings, along with very tempting Hawaiian chocolates amongst other treats.

Duration: 25 minutes

Stop At: Kualoa Regional Park, 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Oahu, HI 96744-5133

Chinaman’s Hat, also known as Mokoli’i, is nestled right next to the Kualoa Valley Mountain range. This location is known for its dramatic landscape filmed in a number of Hollywood movies; most notably and fan favorite Jurassic Park. The island has earned the nickname Chinaman’s Hat from its resemblance to the straw hats that the Chinese immigrants wore when working Oahu’s sugar plantations during the early 1900’s.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Kahuku Farms, 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Oahu, HI 96731-2302

We break for lunch at a local restaurant where you can have your pick of either a famous North Shore Garlic Shrimp plate or other local delicacies. Non-Shellfish and Vegetarian options are available. Please bring cash for lunch.

Duration: 40 minutes

Stop At: North Shore, Oahu, HI 96712

After lunch we make a stop at a North Shore tropical fruit stand which offers ice cold coconuts to drink from, fresh mangos, and other tropical treats.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Sunset Beach, Sunset Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

A change of pace from the crowded beaches of Waikiki, The infamous Sunset Beach on the North Shore offers tranquility and is the epitome of a beautiful Hawaiian Beach. However don’t lets the summer months fool you, during the winter months, swells of 30 to 40 feet can be seen from the safe confines of shore.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Pua’ena Point Beach Park, Kahalewai Pl, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712

Hono is the Hawaiian name for our beloved Green Sea Turtles. Our Honu are very Hawaiian in that they love to lay on the sand and bask under the warm sun. We take you to a beach where we hope to spot this incredible occurrence.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy Dole Plantation, Wahiawa, Oahu, HI 96786-2915

A historic pineapple plantation home to pineapple magnets, pineapple t-shirts, pineapple keychains and most importantly pineapple ice cream aka Dole Whip!! A great way to end the day and get some pineapple themed souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Duration: 30 minutes

Departure and return

Start:Multiple meeting point options.

  • Option 1
    333 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Ross Dress For Less Store – 333 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 @ 7:10 AM
  • Option 2
    Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra, 410 Atkinson Dr, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
    Ala Moana Hotel- curbside on Mahukona Street @ 6:50 AM
  • Option 3
    Grand Islander bus depot, Waikiki, HI 96815, USA
    Hilton Hawaiian Village – Grand Islander Bus Depot @ 7:00 AM
  • Option 4
    Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa, 2424 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa- Green awning on Koa Ave. @ 7:15 AM
  • Option 5
    The Twin Fin Hotel, 2570 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    The Twin Fin’s Trolley stop (Formerly Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel) @ 7:20 AM
  • Option 6
    Ka La‘i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, 223 Saratoga Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Trump International Hotel Trolley Stop @ 7:05 AM
    Option 7
    Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu, 1775 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Modern Honolulu Hotel Valet @ 6:55 AM

End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Accessibility

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps

Additional information

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Total duration includes travel time to each location
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Current Progress
Current Progress
Current Progress
Checking Real time availability

Adult (13+)$144
Child (3-12)$114

Current Progress
Current Progress
Current Progress
Checking Real time availability

Adult (13+)$144
Child (3-12)$114

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Oahu with our Hidden Gems of Oahu Circle Island Tour. Discover the island’s best-kept secrets as you traverse its scenic routes, guided by our expert local tour guides who breathe life into each stop with their wealth of knowledge and passion for sharing the island’s rich heritage [1]. From the vibrant culture of Waikiki to the serene beauty of Byodo-In Temple, immerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of Oahu’s attractions. Witness breathtaking vistas, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches tucked away from the beaten path. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, this tour promises something extraordinary for every traveler. Join us and uncover the hidden gems that make Oahu truly remarkable.


  • Tour Name: [acf field="tour_name"]
  • Availability: Daily
  • Duration: 9h
  • Start Time: Check availability

What's included

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional Guide
  • Waikiki Pick-Up & Drop-Off
  • Admission to Byodo-In Temple
  • Entry/Admission – Byodo-In Temple

What’s not included

  • Gratuities
  • Guest should bring money for food and drinks

What to expect

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Diamond Head State Monument, 18th Ave. Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815

The first lookout we visit is an elevated view perched on the eastern side of Waikiki’s famous Diamond Head Volcano, This lookout grants us a great opportunity for pictures of the south eastern coastline of Oahu, with notable sights as far as Hanauma bay and Maui on a clear day. The location is more formally known as Amelia Earhart Lookout, known for where bystanders gathered to watch Earhart make her first solo aviation journey from Hawaii to North America.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Halona Blowhole, Kalanian’ole Highway, Oahu, HI 96825

Molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions that occurred from Oahu’s Koko Head crater formed the natural occurrence known as the Halona Blowhole. This lava tube extends into the ocean with a very narrow opening at the top, and when the surf is just right, water pressure builds up within the lava tube and erupts through the narrow opening creating a special Hawaiian Geyser for your viewing pleasure.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Makapu’u Point, Kalaniana’ole Hwy turnout above Makapu’u Beach, Oahu, HI 96795

Witness Waimanalo’s dramatic sea cliffs as we turn into Oahu’s windward side as we begin our journey to the North Shore of Oahu. Look off into the azure blue waters of the bay and you will see Oahu’s famous Manana Island also known as Rabbit island due to its Rabbit like shape.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Byodo-In Temple, 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744-4562

The Temple grounds are a lushly landscaped paradise nestled in a cleft of the pali and are home to wild peacocks and hundreds of Japanese koi carp. The beautiful grounds include a large reflecting pond, meditation niches, and small waterfalls. Our guests describe this destination as beautiful, peaceful, and restful. Admissions is included with the price of tour.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Tropical Farms (The Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet), 49-227 Kamehameha Hwy Ste A, Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744-5165

After a beautiful drive along Oahu’s eastern coastline, our next stop is a local shop that finds itself tucked away under aged Banyan Trees with macadamia nut and delicious Kona coffee tastings, along with very tempting Hawaiian chocolates amongst other treats.

Duration: 25 minutes

Stop At: Kualoa Regional Park, 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Oahu, HI 96744-5133

Chinaman’s Hat, also known as Mokoli’i, is nestled right next to the Kualoa Valley Mountain range. This location is known for its dramatic landscape filmed in a number of Hollywood movies; most notably and fan favorite Jurassic Park. The island has earned the nickname Chinaman’s Hat from its resemblance to the straw hats that the Chinese immigrants wore when working Oahu’s sugar plantations during the early 1900’s.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Kahuku Farms, 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Oahu, HI 96731-2302

We break for lunch at a local restaurant where you can have your pick of either a famous North Shore Garlic Shrimp plate or other local delicacies. Non-Shellfish and Vegetarian options are available. Please bring cash for lunch.

Duration: 40 minutes

Stop At: North Shore, Oahu, HI 96712

After lunch we make a stop at a North Shore tropical fruit stand which offers ice cold coconuts to drink from, fresh mangos, and other tropical treats.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Sunset Beach, Sunset Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

A change of pace from the crowded beaches of Waikiki, The infamous Sunset Beach on the North Shore offers tranquility and is the epitome of a beautiful Hawaiian Beach. However don’t lets the summer months fool you, during the winter months, swells of 30 to 40 feet can be seen from the safe confines of shore.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Pua’ena Point Beach Park, Kahalewai Pl, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712

Hono is the Hawaiian name for our beloved Green Sea Turtles. Our Honu are very Hawaiian in that they love to lay on the sand and bask under the warm sun. We take you to a beach where we hope to spot this incredible occurrence.

Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy Dole Plantation, Wahiawa, Oahu, HI 96786-2915

A historic pineapple plantation home to pineapple magnets, pineapple t-shirts, pineapple keychains and most importantly pineapple ice cream aka Dole Whip!! A great way to end the day and get some pineapple themed souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Duration: 30 minutes

Departure and return

Start:Multiple meeting point options.

  • Option 1
    333 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Ross Dress For Less Store – 333 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 @ 7:10 AM
  • Option 2
    Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra, 410 Atkinson Dr, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
    Ala Moana Hotel- curbside on Mahukona Street @ 6:50 AM
  • Option 3
    Grand Islander bus depot, Waikiki, HI 96815, USA
    Hilton Hawaiian Village – Grand Islander Bus Depot @ 7:00 AM
  • Option 4
    Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa, 2424 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa- Green awning on Koa Ave. @ 7:15 AM
  • Option 5
    The Twin Fin Hotel, 2570 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    The Twin Fin’s Trolley stop (Formerly Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel) @ 7:20 AM
  • Option 6
    Ka La‘i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, 223 Saratoga Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Trump International Hotel Trolley Stop @ 7:05 AM
    Option 7
    Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu, 1775 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
    Modern Honolulu Hotel Valet @ 6:55 AM

End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Accessibility

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps

Additional information

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Total duration includes travel time to each location
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

What others are saying...

Justin C. Avatar
Justin C.
9/16/2024
Great O’ahu sampler RJ did a great job of keeping things lively, entertaining, and informative. He shared everything from celebrity trivia to Hawaiian history and language. Our driver Shaun kept us on time while still keeping the driving professional. Some of the stops were a little disappointing, but overall it was a great sampling of the island and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting O’ahu for their first time.
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Giselle N. Avatar
Giselle N.
9/03/2024
Good tour for quick stops foe first time visitors. The spots were all good and the driver Erik was very good at driving. RJ was able to give us lots of Hawaiian history post colonization. When you book this tour through GO City, they promote that this bus tour will go stop at sunset beach. RJ explained how that is not allowed legally. So if anything I have beef with the go city pass I got for making it seem like I could spend time at a North shore beach. I would not have carried around 3 beach towels all day if I had know otherwise.
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Alo R. Avatar
Alo R.
8/13/2024
Wowzers! Would absolutely super dupley recommend this tour for anyone interested in seeing the highlights of Hawaii in a day! This is my first time in Hawaii and other attractions of the island can be pretty far from each other so this tour was the perfecto solution. But most importantly — RJ was the one who made this trip extra special. His tour guidance, tips, storytelling, recommendations, and humorous jokes was what kept the tour alive. I advise everyone to book with him as you will not regret it. He will make you feel like part of his ohana. Total props to the driver, Raul, as well! Probably the most smoothest tour driver in Hawaii there is! Thank you both for an unforgettable and amazing experience.
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Johnny V. Avatar
Johnny V.
8/10/2024
RJ and John J. are the Dynamic Duo you Need We decided to kick off our Hawaiian vacation with a tour of Oahu, and I'm so glad we decided to go with Go Tours Hawaii. 3 shuttles arrived at our hotel (Twin Fin), and since one of our party members was a little late, we ended up on the last shuttle in line, but as luck would have it, we ended up with the best tour guide/driver combo in RJ and John J.

From the very beginning, RJ made us feel like family, as he started off the tour with a few ground rules and a round-robin of introductions where we all introduced ourselves. He kept it light and fun. You can really tell that RJ has a wealth of knowledge, and he expertly dispersed his knowledge with an entertaining flair. He kept us on time, and more importantly, ahead of the other tour buses so that our group could see the sights without all the crowds that would undoubtedly come after us.

One thing I really appreciated was that he was transparent about which vendors we may want to avoid, and what opportunities we would have for purchasing certain goods throughout our stops, so that we could make our decisions at certain stops. He was very clear about when we would have opportunities for restroom stops as well, which is a bonus, as we were traveling with young children.

Throughout our stops, our driver John J. was always present, and made sure he was visible to us as we made our way back to the shuttle. Since many of the shuttles look alike, and they often move the shuttles to different parking areas after dropoff, John J. went out of his way to ensure that we all made it back safely to his shuttle. On top of that, we sometimes had to cross the street to get to certain areas (the 7-11 to grab Spam Musubi, for instance, at one of the stops), and John sometimes helped us and our kids cross the street safely, ensuring that all cars stopped for us. I liked that he prioritized our safety - not every driver will be this courteous.

This tour is a great way to get to see a lot of the stuff outside of the touristy Waikiki area, including admission to the Dole Pineapple factory. It is a long tour, but a nice way to see the whole island with a knowledgable guide. Aside from the many stops along the way, which you can read about in the tour description, I think what made this the most enjoyable was RJ and his personality. We also booked a Luau through Go Tours Hawaii, and mentioned RJ - everyone in the company speaks highly of him, and I feel lucky to have hopped on that last bus that day. RJ and John J. are the best!

RJ - if you're reading this - I hope one day you do get to buy your dream house on the island. Yayyeeaahhh!
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Palangat R. Avatar
Palangat R.
7/30/2024
Sights of Oahu The tour was awesome. We saw many unforgettable sights and had many cherishing memories.
Our guide RJ was passionate in making sure we had a great time throughout.
He was truly an awesome guide, funny, personable, and able to connect with everyone in the group on a personal level.
I have to say he is one of the best guides that I came across
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Devika R. Avatar
Devika R.
7/30/2024
Very well organized. Very punctual and the guide RJ did give us a lot of information and historical details about Hawai Excellent natural scenery, Took lots of pictures.Was very relaxing , had great time, Made new friends and enjoyed the fun , food , jokes. I will treasure the great memories 👍
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Misael R. Avatar
Misael R.
7/30/2024
Awesome Great time with our guide Kanamu and her driver. She was fantastic and very knowledgeable. Food was great and the time flew by.
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Nomad39879400642 Avatar
Nomad39879400642
7/30/2024
Hidden gems of Oahu tour We had a great day/tour with our guide Kanamu! She was very professional and accommodating. The ride was smooth and efficient.
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Aruna P. Avatar
Aruna P.
7/30/2024
Great tour experience! Rj was great at touring us around Hawaii and introducing us to the hidden gems that we were not aware of. I enjoyed this tour very much.
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Pinal P. Avatar
Pinal P.
7/30/2024
Awesome Great tour guide! Very enjoyable! We had a lot of fun with guide. His name was RJ and he explained all of the sites very well.
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